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How to make a tote bag

Here is a simple way to make a tote bag and it is even reversible. The best part it is even reversible. You might also like to make a darling pleated zippered pouch to go with your new tote! You will be surprised at how easy it is to put in a zipper with this zippered pouch tutorial.

Tote Bag Supplies

2 pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches (outside)

2 pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches (lining)

1 piece 4” X about 44″ long

How to make a tote bag

First lets start by making the straps. You will be surprised at how easy it is to make a reversible tote bag! You will be making them for every activity. They make great gifts too!

4. Top-stitch down each side of strap close to the edge. Cut fabric in half so you have two straps about 22 inches long each.

Now lets make the tote bag.

Cut four pieces fabric 13 1/2 inches X 14 inches.

Sew lining fabric right sides together on three sides and then also sew outer fabric right sides together on three sides. For this bag the bottom is 13 1/2 inches wide and the sides 14 inches long. The bag can be made any size.

3. Pinch bottom corner together and stitch across 1 1/2 inches from corner. Do this for the lining and also the outer fabric.

4. Repeat until all four corners have been sewn.

5. Place lining fabric inside the outside fabric right sides together. I slipped the lining fabric up a bit so you can see how it slips in.

6. Place straps in between right sides of fabric on each side about two to three inches from the side edge.

7. Pins straps and top edge of bag well. Stitch around top of bag 1/2 inch from edge. Leave a 2-3 inch opening for turning bag (I usually leave this on the side).

8. Turn bag inside out.

9. Push lining inside the bag and top stitch all the way around the top of bag. This will close up the opening used for turning.

Comments

I liked your tutorial. It was insightful. I have been away from sewing & quilting for about 30 years, except for the odd costume when my daughter was in primary school. I have helped making her a couple of costumes in her adulthood for Halloween. However, I usually I only did the cutting out. My mom did the sewing.

I have invested in a new sewing machine since I have retired & want to quilt & paint for the rest of my days that God blesses me with.

My first project is going to be a purse, simple (I hope) & easy till I can get back in the swing of things. I’m having difficulty using invisible thread. Man, what a problem. I can’t keep my machine needle threaded. Plus, I haven’t even tried to wind a bob in with the stuff!

Also, I would like to put in the usual zippered inside pocket, as well as a cell phone pocket & key keeper.

I am looking for a tutorial on how to cut out & put the pockets inside the purse & I would like to put a decorative & fold-over pocket outside.

Any hints or tutorials you can help me with will be immensely appreciated!

I must admit the invisible thread has “whopped my b-t” & shattered my confidence in my ability. I don’t usually have this much trouble with machines.

I have ordered some very expensive fabric & ribbons/borders from the studio of French designer Odile Bailloeul. So, I don’t want to make a mess of it.

Thank you for the tutorial. My granddaughter’s Birthday is next week and being it is so close to Christmas I wanted to make her a little something special. The tutorial was easy to follow. I put her name on the front. Plan on making this tote again!

so i was looking for a patteren to make headbands for a couple friends inculding my sisters and also selling some to but when i looked it up or went to joans frabic store i couldnt find it anywhere so i tried looking again online and i found this website on how to make tote bags so i clicked on it and i liked it so very much but what i think was a little hard for me was trying to see what size and mearsurements were

Finally I have found an easy way to make a tote bag. I want to make them for my family to put their Christmas presents in, and as we are about to abolish plastic shopping bags they have one ready. Thank you.

This is adorable. Has to be the easiest directions to follow and understand. I just made 2 for my daughter and her Big. It's for the Big/Little gifts for her and her sorority sister. I can't wait to fill them with "rescue treats" during those long study nights. Thank you so much. I wish I could post a picture for you. I made 2 in under a hour and a half from start to finish and they are my first tote bags ever made. Love Love Love it.

I am SO glad I found this. Your directions and photos helped me immensely. My family will be getting their Christmas presents this year in new, fantastic 'gift bags'. Once I took my time and followed step-by-step...this pattern is a breeze. Gotta go, there are more bags to make! Thank you.

This bag is great, your tutorial is easy to follow. I made one for my Granddaughter with her initial appliqued on it and now my daughter has asked me to make one for my Grandson, she said it would be perfect for his library bag at school. I am letting him pick out the material and his will be appliqued with his initial on it as well! Wonderful, easy to follow tutorial!

This is a great, easy-to-follow pattern. I made a few modifications (overall size, strap construction) to make an appliquéd bag for my ukelele song books. Would love to share a pic with you, but that doesn't seem to be an option here. Have had several requests for my pattern. I most certainly gave you credit and linked to this page.

Thanks so much for sharing your patterns and directions with us for the tote bag and matching zippered pouch. I am teaching my granddaughters (ages 8 and 10) to sew and these are perfect for them. Love the Bible verse on the pouch-- Joshua 1:9 is one of my favorites!!!

How do you print instructions for the fabric tote. I am not too computer literate. But I didn't see printer friendly. So, I must have to do something to get the printer to just print the pictures and instructions. Can you help so I might print other things I like.

I love this tutorial... planning to make a few for birthday gifts for nieces and nephews this year. Also saw the previous poster's question about making them to sell. That was my question also, so I was happy to find the answer, and plan to add them to my site for purchase, linking back here for credit. The other question I had was whether you cut off your corners after stitching them or leave them on? It would seem to me to leave extra bulk after turning.

Shannon, you can use the pattern to make totes to sell! Please though, don't reprint or sell the pattern (just link back here). I hope you can use the pattern to bless your family with some extra money!

I leave the corners on and don't notice the extra bulk. You may also trim... but not too close to the stitching line. You wouldn't want the fabric to give way.

Minn

Thursday, January 26th, 2017

Thank you for the simple pattern!

our local woman's transition house has started a campaign for sewers and crafters to make reusable bags for all their hampers that get distributed to women and families. I'll be using this pattern and sharing with all involved!

I found this ages ago but only just got around to trying it. I love the idea of the gap being left at the top to be sewn up with the top stitching. Most things I've done leave the gap in the bottom of the lining which I don't really like hand stitching or stitching closed on the machine. I also love the fabric you have used and will definitely be having a look at the matching tissue holder and pouch. I made gifts for Christmas but ran out of time so I am already thinking of making plenty of things ready for next Christmas. Thank you.

I have used your tutorial to make many bags over the years. When I started on another round of bags for this year's Christmas, I thought I would stop and take a minute to thank you for this tutorial. It has brought many cute bags into the world!

Thank you so much for this project. I have wanted to make a tote bag for ages now. I found it very easy to follow and made four. They are the perfect size for the quilted advent calendars I have made for my granddaughters. Super pleased with them, as I am sure they will be as well.

Thank you so much!!! Just made one for a faculty meeting door prize. I used fusible interface in the handles and bag to give it a little "body" and made the bottom 2.5 inches deep and it is just darling!!! Thank you again so such a quick and easy pattern.

Wow, these are really good, very simple and clear instructions. I just made one for a friend using plain corduroy for the bag, overlaid with a panel of toning patterned heavy weight cotton and same fabric for the straps, which are a little wider and top stitched with extra rectangle of stitches for more strength where they join the bag. Thank you so much for this tutorial.

Thank you so much for this fabulous pattern! I've made loads of them to give to friends and everyone loves them. They're just the right size to fold up and keep in my handbag for that impulsive purchase!

Thank you for this fabulously simple pattern! I've made a dozen of them so far, mostly to give to friends - ever since the introduction of a statutory 5p charge for carriers it is just so handy to keep one or two of these folded up inside my handbag and then I never get caught out. And besides they look so much nicer than cheapie plastic bags!

straps? what to do with sraps after sewing on? I was coasting along fine but got super messed up when straps came. I made them very nice by the way. Super easy but could not for life of me figure where to put the remainder of stap. So I sewed on other side in between fabric and when I went to turn iside out my tote was all messed up. I have a lining rough side. The outside is fine but inside tote well not so nice. what did i mess up. I could not go figure. i am so new at this. Thank you. My first one turned out better I did staps another way. Maybe should have stuck to what worked for me. lol. You are precious cindy and talented. thank you. Please reply I am curious!!! God B;ess you patti

skip to my lou. Preciuos cindy. Loved the instructions for the tote. Simple, My kind of sewing. I am new at this. I love the hobby. I get flustered at to many instructions. I could easily follow yours. Yay. Thank you so much woman. I am going to make Number 2 tote today. God Bless You. Patti

I just made four of these totes as Christmas gifts - actually, they were used in place of Christmas stockings for adult women. I made the first one exactly as directed then decided to play with the size a bit, because it seems just a bit narrow at the opening. I ended up cutting the fabric at 14x16 inches, and that one inch difference in the opening (after sewing the seam) made all the difference. The recipients were so happy with the bags! Thank you for a great, very useful tutorial!

Thank you! Great instructions. I bought some very expensive fabric several months ago, to make into a gift tote bag, and have been too nervous to start. I just made 3 totes in 2 days, the 3rd one in the very expensive fabric and it looks great.

Wonderfully easy pattern and fun! Making them out of leftover fabrics for neighborhood welcome wagon duties to give to new folks with goodies inside. Could use some hints on the corners though. Couldn't make them push out. Thanks again!

We have been having some trouble with links. Edie, could you let me know which tutorial?

Annmarie

Tuesday, June 16th, 2015

I am no sewing marvel and my bag came out so cute! I used an old tablecloth to do a first version in case I ran into snags, and there were none! (Now I have an adorable bag with old food stains on it! Ha!) Even though I couldn't wrap my brain around how those straps were going to somehow emerge correctly, they did, and I am thrilled with the result. Great tutorial, thank you for posting!

This is a great tutorial. I used a 1/4" seam all around; is this right? Also, I used fat quarters to make one and purchased cotton webbing for the straps. I used leftover fabric for another one, buying fat quarters for the lining and using more leftover fabric to make a pocket on the inside.

Hi, I love this bag! Thank you for the instructions. A note: There were two bits in the instructions where I think it could have been a little clearer. The piece about sewing at the bottom corners - I flubbed that I think but it still worked - and also how to put the straps in to sew. Mine came out slightly twisted. I can still fix it but that would be helpful to explain a bit better how to lay out the straps between the two layers. Thanks! It is a really functional fun bag.

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This tutorial is the best! I love the simplicity of this bag! I normally sew with spandex so this was the first bag I ever made and it looks store bought! I tried my hand at appliqué on the side of the bag too! I'll be telling all my friends about your page!

Wanted to let you know I made your tote bag and was so very happy with the results. It was super easy and looks very professional. I appliquéd my granddaughter's initial and embroidered her name. Really happy with the results. Thank you for sharing.

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Thanks for this great tutorial! I am a foster parent and posted your link for people in our community to use. They are making these totes for the foster parents in our county to use as simple diaper bags for the weekly bio family visits and when children come into care with nothing. This has been an easy tote that really helps the foster families and gives people a way to help when they are unable to foster themselves. Several other counties have borrowed the idea and are sharing your link in their area. Your totes are helping foster families across Arkansas. Thanks!!!

I absolutely LOVE this pattern. To date I have made over 100 bags using this pattern and given them all away as gifts. Have 7 more in the works. Thank you very much for an easy pattern to follow. The pics were extremely helpful.

Help! I'd like to make some totebags to help you meet your goal of 100 by May, 2014. I have the pattern but lost the the simple steps you listed for getting the bags to you....most importantly, I don't have mailing address. I hope you can email that information to me. A blog search didn't generate the info I needed. This will be a great way to whittle down my stash and help a worthy cause. And its wonderful that you continue to stay healthy. Yeah!

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Second time using this tutorial for birthday presents for my children's classmates and this time I am making an extra for my daughter's birthday as she's been so thrilled with giving them as gifts. We reside remotely overseas so running to the store for a last minute birthday gift can be a daunting proposition - thank you for giving me such a great alternative!

Great tutorial! Easy to follow and quick. I made this for my grandson last week and it came out great! I would strongly suggest using a lightweight fusible interfacing on both the lining and the outer fabric and both straps to give this more structure and durability. Just cut the fusible 1/4 inch smaller than the fabric to avoid seam bulkiness. Using the fusible gives it a nice crisp finish and then the bag can hold more weight. Thanks for sharing the tutorial! Love it!

I loved this simple, clear and very easy tutorial!! Loved it at Christmas when I made 9 of them for my nieces and younger nephews.I mentioned your tutorial and linked back to you. Thanks again~Cindy(also)

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I just made this and boy was I impressed at the finished result! I just received my 1st sewing machine for Christmas and this was only my 2nd sewing project I've completed. (The first was a simple pillow.) My bag is not perfect by any means, but both my husband and I were impressed that 1. I completed the bag in around 2 hrs, and 2. the bag turned out pretty good! Thank you for offering a project that has given me the confidence to keep on sewing!

When I originally commented I clicked the "Notify me when new comments are added" checkbox andnow each time a comment is added I get four e-mails with the same comment.Is tnere any way you can remove people from that service?Thans a lot!

I just made this in a mini version for my little girl (19 months). She loves to carry anything around her arm like a bag and I couldn't resist giving her one of her very own as a little Christmas gift. This tutorial was very easy to follow and the pictures made a great reference, start to finish was about 35 minutes. My finished mini tote bag is about 7" x 7" with an 8" strap length to make it easy for her to carry her goodies. Thanks for sharing!

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Thank you for posting this! Just whipped one up for part of my nephew's Christmas gift. This pattern is exactly what I had been looking and looking for. I never tried a pattern like this before, so I wanted something easy and was a little nervous about how it would come out. It is sooo cute, and worked up really quickly! Thanks again for such a great tutorial. I will definitely be checking out the rest of your blog :)

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I saw all these types of bags on a comedy show (Mike & Molly) hanging in her kitchen nd thought, I wonder if there is a simple pattern for those- and here yours is! Thanks so much for the inspiration. I will send some pictures when I have some sewn!

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Thank you for such a quick and easy tutorial! I just used your tutorial, but cut the fabric 1 inch smaller (12.5 x 13) and made trick-or-treat bags for my little ones. The smaller measurements are perfect for them at ages 3 and 5! Even better, I had both bags cut in sewn in just about an hour! <3

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Hi Cindy- thank you for such an easy, nicely written and photographed tutorial. I am learning to sew and find your blog so helpful. There will be a little link love in my post tomorrow. You can find it here:

Made this just this morning for a last minute birthday gift! Our little giftee loves animals and princesses, so reversible was perfect. Farm animals on one side and princess-kitty-unicorn on the other! Very easy. I used cotton handles you can buy by the yard. Can't wait to give it to her!

I made this tonight and just sent you two pics (from my gmail email address). I hope you like it - Your tutorial was very easy to follow and very quick to sew. It will be my "go-to" tote bag pattern from now on! Thank you! You have inspired me and I can't wait to make some more for gifts (Christmas is coming up soon)!

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This tutorial is so simple to follow and really clear to understand. I have linked to your site via my blog as your tutorial inspired me to create my own! :)http://found-inspiration.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/reversible-tote-bag.html#more

I just finished a bag for my daughter (my third child) for her first year at preschool. The instructions were clear and the pictures made it even easier to follow. Thank you! My sweet girl will adore this bag!

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I've been hoarding this Laura Ashley material for years because I'm not very good at sewing. This afternoon I made not one, but two tote bags. I will give one to my daughter. I'm feeling very pleased with myself and can't wait to tackle something else. I'm a late starter - 76 years old and still in the babies class for sewing!

Love this. I'm a sewing novice, and I used this tutorial to make 8 small totes for the little girls on my Christmas list. I used ribbon (flamed on the ends) for the straps. Made life even easier. Thanks so much! They are adorable and gave me no issue!

WoW!!!! Just made six of these!!!! Loved the trick about making a square bottom....amazing!!! Thank you so much for posting pictures & directions!!! I'm a visual person and it helped sooooo much!!!! Love your neat name.... "Skip to my Lou"

I'm new to sewing and this was my first project after making countless envelope cushions! I was a little daunted by the prospect of a lining and also wondered if my sewing would be good enough to produce neat straps. However, I took my time with the cutting and pressing and everything turned out pristine. I would encourage anyone to have a go at making this. Working through the instructions is a breeze! As always, it's nine tenths preparation. Do that part right and you can't go far wrong.

I made a pile of these bags last year for Operation Christmas Child, mad from sale priced fabrics, and leftover curtain fabric I already had. I even added a pocket if I had enough matching fabric.They were fantastic. Thank you so much for very easy to follow instructions. Most appreciated.

Thanks for a very easy to understand tutorial with great photos. I've made three of these, and am finishing up my fourth one today. I make pockets on the outside of each piece which adds some function and dimension. I've sewn all my life, but still struggle with measuring and cutting. This project is very forgiving, though! Thanks again!

Thank you!This is the first ever thing I've made with my sewing machine - I'd never even touched a sewing machine before this - and you made it so easy.I am very proud of my bag even if it has a few wonky lines :)Thank you again, the tutorial was perfect and gave me the confidence to make my own bag.

Oh Helen, Thank you so very much for commenting! It makes me feel so good you were able to make a tote1

Amy and Jam

Tuesday, June 4th, 2013

Hi! This simple pattern has been fantastic to make, me and my mum have made a few now of various sizes and shapes and are currently making one for my grandma for her birthday! Thanks for the easy to follow tutorial, great work!

This has become my favorite thing to make and give as a gift! I use deco fabric from JoAnn's, half yard each of two coordinating fabrics. I cut four inches off the top for the straps (making them a little shorter) and use the remaining fabric for the bag, so very little waste (except for the extra four inches from the other fabric, could make a small pocket?). I make the bottom wider by sewing three to four inches on the pinch. I've even made little "gift" bags with single handles made from lighter weight material to put the big bag in when I give it as a gift. I'm so glad I found this tutorial!

I used your awesome tutorial this afternoon to make a child-size tote for a friend's grand-daughter. I added a coordiating fabric to make a band across the top, embroidered her name on it and put a pocket on the back. It is just adorable! Thanks for making this so easy!( I'll send a photo if you tell me where to send it.)

I love this, thanks so much. First time I tried it I put the inside in the wrong way round... then I left the straps outside rather than inside, resulting in them behind hidden when the bag was the right way round,hehe. Managed it in the end, just need to work on improving my shabby sewing!

Your tutorial was awesome! I've made 7 of them and everyone loves them. It's so nice to give a gift in a personalized tote bag (and good for the environment!). The only thing I add is a pocket or two to both outside and lining. Thanks!!

I'm fairly new to sewing, but had some fabric that I particularly wanted to make a bag with. I've made it today, and am really pleased with how it turned out. I'm feeling pretty proud of myself! Your instructions were straightforward and easy to follow, thanks very much for your post.

I am a beginner sewer i was really excited to try this,unfortunately i didt fully understand the part where you have to construct the straps and stitch top of bag,i stiched all the way round thing the small gap left for turning was the only opening needed,

I made this bag with iron on stiffener on the wrong side of the outside layer (front and back) notching out the lower corners of the stiffener for the diagonal bottom corner stitching so it wouldn't be too bulky. Came out great - thank you!

Thankyou for these wonderful instructions and photos! I am making this bag my first project with my new little sewing machine! I am a beginner so fingers crossed! I will let you know how I get on. It may take a while!!!

I am new at sewing and came across your adorable tote bag. I understand everything except where to leave the opening to turn the bag inside out. Do they have a sewing for idiots book? lol I wonder if you could explain that part one more time.

And if I were to put a batting liner, to make it sturdier, does that get sewed to the liner. In other words the outside of the bag gets sewn good sides facing each other, the liner is also good facing each other....where do i put and sew the batting? LOL

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Thank you SO very much for this wonderful tutorial. I started a Bible study that has a lot of materials and 'homework' and needed something to keep them contained. I ran across you tutorial and it couldn't have been more perfect. I love the wonderful pictures and the instructions were spot on. Thank you, thank you!!! I was the perfect morning project.

Here is a picture of it for you...http://www.flickr.com/photos/23692140@N04/8392540997/

I'm not much of a 3-dimensional sewer (I can sew a baby quilt because it's 2-dimensions). Your tutorial was so easy. I used it to make hula fabric bags for my daughter's hula halau. You can see how they turned out here: http://organized31.blogspot.com/2013/01/hula-fabric-bags.html.Thanks for your tutorial and help!

Thank you much! I've been on the brink of buying a cute chevron tote on etsy. I used your tutorial and whipped up my own yesterday. I cut my fabric 14in x 18in to make a little bigger and used webbing for handles instead of fabric. I also appliqued a burlap "a" on it. What awesome instructions! Thank you!

I made one of these this week end for my daughter (we added a simple patch pocket to the front, as well). I was a little hesitant, but this tutorial is so easy to follow. The end result is simply darling! (

Wow, this was a godsend. After initially resisting making crafty gifts for Christmas, I decided last minute to make some goodies for the girls in the family, and needed something quick and cute. This is PERFECT. Thank you so much for helping me to get over my Grinchyness. This will be my go-to quickie bag from now on!

For those wondering about the "pinch corners together" part... What you want to do is create a "gusset" at the bottom of the bag to make a flat bottom. Just take a good look at the picture on step #5. It shows it more than step #4 for beginners. Just feel confident and see what she's done. Take your hand inside the bottom corner to be sure your layers are together, then turn it so the bottom seam is facing you and is centered in the fabric as you look at it. Do you see how it makes a point? It should look like what you see on image #4. Now, simply sew that line as she shows you, and you will have a nice flat bottom to your bag. If you still cannot see it, I would recommend examining one at a discount store and seeing what one looks like ready made, so you can get a better idea... it is a little tricky to describe.I warn you this will be addictive! I'm making one now that is quilted and has little pockets for pens and cell phone, etc. You'll be doing that soon with tutorials like this! Very well made tutorial! :D

Katy, with the pinching of the corners, I took that to mean we need to bring the side seam to the bottom seam at the corners in order to make the bottom of the bag flatish. The 'pinching' pulls out the fabric between and makes those triangles. I hope I didn't make it more confusing...

I really like this bag but I am struggling with the bottom corners and what you mean when you say to pinch in the corners. Any chance anyone could clarify or explaing further what this means. Must just be me not quite understanding what I am trying to do.

So I am going to attempt to make this bag today as my first real sewing project but I a having trouble conceptualizing step #3. Does this basically just mean fold the corner over on itself? Also what is a top stitch? Is that like a regular stitch? Any clarification is appreciated. Thanks!

Great,easy instructions for such a cute and functional bag. This will be perfect to use up some fabric I have taking up space in my craft closet. Thinking of making a bunch of these in various sizes throughout the year and selling them at our church craft boutique. Thanks so much for sharing!

Thank you so much! Fantastic tutorial - I love all the pictures. I finished my first bag today; it looks really great. One suggestion I'd make is to cut the excess fabric off the bottom corners after you've completed Step 4 - just to reduce the bulkiness in the corners a little.

Wow - great tutorial! I made my very first totebag last night and was so imrpressed with how it came out. Your tutorial was very easy to follow and very precise. I can't wait to make my next one! Thank you!

I made this today in under 3 hours (my first bit of sewing since textiles AS level back in 2005). I did make 2 mistakes (both with where to put the straps), but that was down to me not reading it properly. Great tutorial, thanks a lot :D

Really easy to follow instructions, I am a total sewing novice and I had a great looking bag in no time despite choosing a suede effect fabric for the outside which wasn't the easiest to work with but it looked great teamed with a floral ditsy print lining....I know what I will be making everyone for Christmas!!Thanks vry much for great directions!!

Thank you so much for your fantastic bag pattern, I just made it and it turned out even better than I expected. Your pattern was so easy to follow one of the easiest I have found and I looked at a lot of different patterns, your amazing!!!Loved your choice of fabric too!!!

I just used this as my very first project on my brand new sewing machine! I made mine a little smaller because I was just using some scrap material I picked up to practice on but it tuned out great! Thank you!

I just used this tutorial to make a sweet little bag for my friend's grandson. I added him name to the front for an extra touch. The instructions were very clear and I love how the straps are concealed.....Love your site. Thanks a bunch!!!

Dear CindyYou've just helped me solving the mountainhigh problem of how to sew in the straps. Gosh, such a tote bag seems to be so easy - but I surely couldn't have done it without your help. Thank you very, very much.Kind and happy greetings from the Frankfurt area in GermanyChristiane

Just made this and it turned out adorable! I modified the pattern slightly to add a pocket to the inside and the outside in the opposite fabrics, and it looks pretty good. Thank you for the well-written and clear tutorial!

I am brand new to sewing but would love to try this because you make it look so easy! However, I was wondering what type of fabric you used and how much you would recommend me getting from the craft store? Thanks so much!

I used your tutorial and thought it was great! I have started posting "Terrific Tutorials" and yours was the first. It was so easy to use and my bag turned out great. I am very proud of it so I had to show it off!

Wow. I JUST started sewing last week by making two fun pillows. So this is my third-ever project. It was SUPER easy. My top-stitching isn't so brilliant, but I love it all the same. I used a colorful pattern on the outside and a bright blue on the inside. I'm a law student, and my aim was to make this bag to carry one law book and one notebook. Well, unfortunately we have huge books and this bag just isn't big enough. I guess I'll have to make another one! :)

Wish I had seen this site before I spent many hours using a bag pattern I found in a magazine. This is a much more user friendly pattern and technique with a great looking finished tote. I look forward to making several!

Thank you for sharing! I've been looking for something like this to make a basket liner for my beach cruiser, that I can take out when I'm going in somewhere. This is perfect so I can take my basket measurements and make a liner that fits and converts to a bag! Thanks again!!

I just made 2 bags for a friend's granddaughters aged 4 and 2 (not having any myself!), adjusting the size downwards for the 2 year old. I quilted the outside fabric with some cotton wadding, added pockets inside and out and embellished them with ribbon trims and buttons. I also slightly stiffened the straps with iron on interfacing. I think they look great - hope the girls will love them too. Many thanks for the tutorial. I rather fancy having a go at the crayon roll next.....

Made this for my sister's birthday. WalMart had a lot of material on clearance for $2 a yard. I added heavy iron on interfacing on all pieces. put of piece of corrugated plastic (Lowe's) in the bottom and embroidered her initial on the outside and inside. Now it is does not collapse. Cute, Cute, Cute. Thanks for easy instructions!!

So far I love the tutorial! Everything turns out beautiful until # 7. I am very new to sewing and would love to make this bag for my daughter. When I get to the turning of #8 the top is sewn shut. My tips on what i am doing wrong. For number 7 do you sew arounf the bag to close the top or stitch right across all 4 pieces of the bag? Thanks!

I just wanted you to know that I found your site a month ago or so when I was going to make a reversible bag and needed some guidance. I made one and LOVE it thanks to your pattern. Today I came back to your site to make another one! I love it even more! Both the bags I've made I made the handles longer and on the sides to make them sling bags but thanks to your great instructions the bags look great! THANKS!

Thank you for this brilliant tutorial! I'm a beginner at sewing and wanted an easy bag pattern. This fits the bill to a tee! I've made 2 up to now. They don't take too long to make, a project for a rainy afternoon.Thank you once again!!

Thank you for the wonderful tutorial. I'm a beginner at sewing and you made this very easy for me. I am SO happy with my bag! It only took me about an hour to make the whole thing. It's beyond adorable!!!

I just finished making 2 totes for my pre-school age grandsons, using "boy fabrics" of course. They are preparing to move to a new city and I thought it would be great if they each had a "travel bag" to put all their prized possessions (cars and trucks) into, along with some treat, crayons, books, etc. to keep them busy during the move. The tote bags turned out really cute and the boys loved them! Thanks for the easy to follow instructions.

Hello, I recently(yesterday) found your tote bag on the internet. I got excited about them because I want to make a tote for my bridesmaids. I had some extra fabric so I decided to try it torday. Well, I am stuck on Step 5. Maybe I am a little slow but I dont know for the step if i am suppost to turn one with the patterns on the outside then stick it in the one you do not turn over yet. Or am I suppost to place a unturned (pattern on the inside) piece inside the other. If you can please get back to me when you have a chance.

I have just made one of these bags from oil cloth with a fabric lining. I wasn;'t able to do the turn out like you said but with a bit of patience, it's all gone together beautifully and I love it! Picture this: Navy blue oil cloth with white spots lined with cerise fabric with white spots! It looks brilliant! xxxx

Hey I was hoping you would give me your honest opinion and check out my bags on http://bagsunique.ieand share my facebook page with friends.https://www.facebook.com/BagsUnique.ieLet me know what you think?Thanks

Hi! Thank you for the tote bag! You have provided easy to follow instructions with wonderful and clear photos. I really appreciate the instruction. I am new to the sewing world. You have made this so easy. Thank you very much!

This was so much fun to make! I am a nocvice sewer and had no problem at all except for the fact that I made the bag much bigger (18" across the bottom and 15" up the sides with straps long enough to be slung across the chest) and followed the instructions to leave a 2/3" hole to turn the bag out. Well, I had SUCH a challennge getting all that fabric through that tiny hole! Next time I will leave a 3" opoening. I can't wait to make my next one! Thank you!!

Thank you so much for the great tutorial! I found it on Pinterest and couldn't wait to try it out. I'm just learning how to sew and still managed to make this successfully thanks to your clear instructions. I can't wait to try some of your other tutorials now! I'm thinking maybe the lined, zippered pouch next. I put some pictures of my finished bag on my blog if you'd like to see it. Thanks again for all the work you put into these tutorials. It makes it so much easier for a newbie like me to learn some skills without having to invest in a mountain of books (and probably still be lost).

I made 15 of these for my daughter to give as gifts to bridesmaids etc. at her wedding. She loved that they were in her colors and was something unique for her special people. It was so popular that my niece also asked for 10 for her wedding. My daughter does a lot of traveling and uses them to sort her clothes, make-up, undies etc. in her suit case. She actually puts whole outfits that she has to wear in a bag. I am visiting her and am making some more and forgot my notes which I need as it has been a couple years. I really appreciated finding your web site so I could review the layering technique with the lining and handles! THANKS

Thank you for your tutorial! The bag came out really well. It's my first sewing project I've ever done. I finally got around to using the machine I've had for years and also use some old table linens. I'm still not quite sure I did the corners right, but it looks okay to me!

Hi...loved your bag!!! Very very simple and turns out just Greaet!!! I have been cutting out a bunch as I am part of a group of ladies who make items for the community. We will be filling these bags with necessities and treats for ladies who are much in need at christmas!!! Thanks so much!

Your tutorial was very easy to follow. From cutting to sewing it took me under 2 hours to make using a very sturdy material. I'm going to change the dimensions to make the tote larger and replace all my shopping bags.

I always iron along the way and found it helpful especially when lining up the seams to make the corners for the bottom. Thanks so much!

Made this VERY CUTE bag this evening- I could not be more excited about how cute it turned out and how quickly I was able to put it together! New to sewing, but very inspired by this turning out so adorable! Thanks!

I just wanted to say thank you for this tute!!!! I saw this on You Tube and it was so confusing, and each segment lasted about a minute and could not find the next step to work on....I was so upset and liked it so. Well, now I see this and u did a great job and cannot wait to do it now. Going to make a quick tote for a lady that loves dogs and retiring and she will be able to take it to the dog shows and all. Thank you so much for doing a great job here and so great.....It is people like you that make it great to be a quilter and able to share!!!!!

Also, I find ironing them before measuring/stitching to be extremely helpful. Actually, although some people find it annoying to do it, I find ironing almost every step of every project to be invaluable as it produces a very professional, polished looking end product.

To make the bottom even, once you're lined up the seams and ironed the corners, measure up from the point to 1.5 inches (for this tutorial) and draw a line (where you'll stitch) and use the same measurement on each corner of the outside and the lining.

I found this tutorial to be so easy and the finished product is excellent! (I'm a novice sewer, btw)

I have been on a bag-making binge lately - bulk food bags, tote bags, bags to hold bulk food bags, etc. The tote I made last week had a different construction for making the bottom dimensional (and probably wouldn't work as nicely if a lined one), and when I found your tute I thought I'd try it this way too- options are good! Love the cute fabric you used, by the way. Yes, it is certainly an easy bag, but there was one part that was annoyingly fiddly & time-consuming, and that was where you "simply" pinch the corner so you can sew across it to make the box shape at the bottom. Is there some magic way to do this simply & accurately? I'm pretty good with fiddly little things, but this just seemed to be harder that I thought it should be, to get it nice & flat AND symmetrical, before stitching across. Any tips? Or is it simple practice? In the end I was quite pleased with my bag, but I would love if that step had some tricks to make it easier. Thanks!

I LOVE this project! I agree with everyone else that the instructions were very easy to follow, and the completed project is terrific! Very easy and quick, and so customizable.

For one bag, I added a strip of fabric to one side and sewed up 2 parts to make a 3 piece pocket. This works as an outside pocket on one side, and if reversed it becomes an inside pocket. I'm giving this as a gardening bag, and wanted a pocket to help hold some tools. Here's a link to a picture of this bag: https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-yuPcqLoFuKY/Ty65mxlnqHI/AAAAAAAAA3o/5CU02fnI9i0/s640/gardenbag.JPG

Another bag I did was for my daughter, who loves pink. Thought she could use this for books, or toting small amounts of groceries, etc. I added a couple of pieces of ribbon and a pretty buckle clasp - as decoration, as well as a way to sort of close the top of the bag. This works on both sides of the bag - just flip it to the opposite side and run one side of the ribbon over the center of the clasp to secure. Here's a link to a pic of that bag: https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wr62F1-d8vA/Ty65nWS2YII/AAAAAAAAA3s/gJebNvCM7-U/s640/jensbag.JPG

I know I will be using this pattern more. Thanks so much creating and posting this :^)

I am 16 and I have probably only used a sewing machine 5 times in my life. This bag was so easy to make!!! I made it for a bag for my school books and it looks GREAT! Instead of 13 1/2 by 14 inch rectangles I did 20 by 17 inch rectangles and a 2 inch corner stitch. I also only did one long strap which I attached at the side seems. I love it and I think I will be using this for Christmas presents this coming year!!! Also, (to anyone who doesn't sew very often) I couldn't really wrap my head around the concepts from step to step at first but I did exactly as it said I didn't mess up once. They really are easy step to step instruction.

1. Press strap fabric in half lengthwise.2. Open fabric up and press each outside edge to the center.3. Fold fabric in half and press.4. Top-stitch down each side of strap close to the edge. Cut fabric in half so you have two straps about 22 inches long each.

The Bag

Sew lining fabric right sides together on three sides and also outer fabric right sides together on three sides.

Pinch bottom corner together and stitch across 1 1/2 inches from corner. Repeat until all four corners have been sewn. Press long sides open.

Turn lining fabric right side out. Pin straps to right side of lining fabric, matching edges, about 2-3 inches from the side seam. Make sure the straps are oriented the same way.

Insert lining and straps into outside of bag (which is still inside out). Pin straps and top edge of bag well. Stitch around top of bag 1/2 inch from edge. Leave a 2-3 inch (no less!) opening for turning bag. I usually leave the opening on the side.

Turn bag inside out. Push lining inside the bag and top stitch all the way around the top of bag. This will close up the opening used for turning.

Just whipped up 3 of these bags today for a new family at our church that has 3 little girls. The mom came up to me after church on Sunday and asked how I got my kids to sit so nicely (she caught them on a good day), I told her that each had a church bag. When I woke up this morning I said to my husband that I wanted to make the girls each a bag...he said that it was a good idea. I used your tutorial over a year ago to make trick or treat bags for my kids. So quick & easy! Thanks!

I also made my first bag with your tutorial! Thank you, thank you, thank you. It was very easy with your explaination and pictures! My three little girls ara all waiting for there own now, so I know what tho do with my sewing machine and fabrics! Again, thank you so much!Kind regards

This was the first project I made with a sewing machine. I'm 48, and my partner got me one for Christmas. (I'd asked for one, after years of watching Project Runway.) Anyway, this seemed doable, and it turned out quite nicely. No one will mistake it for Louis Vuitton, but it's something I could take out in public. Thanks!

Thank you so much for this tutorial! It was so clear and easy to understand, even for a novice sewer like me. I needed a tote bag to lug my books and stuff to school and thought, surely I can make one myself and then after messing up on my own I found this and I did it! Thank you!!!

Hi... I just made two tote bags from your tutorial and I love them. Very easy and simple, the results are so pretty. Both of my girls love their new tote bags. Thank you...! Keep sharing and happy sewing...

I love this pattern - I attempted my first tote today and it tote's came out awesome! I changed it around a bit to be able to make use of the fabric I had laying around, let me know what you think! http://elizamiddleton.wordpress.com/2011/12/11/rainy-sundays/#

@Sanaya for step #5 you take the 2 peices of fabric that are the same pattern and sew 3 sides. you dont sew the top because that will be the opening of the bag. thats the best i can explain it. im not sure if you cheaking anymore but tried to help good luck

I am making the reverible tote as your clear, easy instruction convienced me I could do it. I am half way through. Thanks to your site my daughter will be getting xmas this year - homemade. thanks again.

thank you so much. I was all over the make a tote sites last night and hesitant to make the tote but then I remembered your site which I recently found and whola - there you were with clear, easy instructions for a tote. I am half way through it and it is actually looking soooo nice. Thank you so much as I am making it for my daughter for xmas as well as other items, all making from your site. I appreciate your so clear instructions as I am not talented in this but thought I'd try as funds are short this year and all my items are being homemade from fabric I have on hand and they are looking pretty good so far. thank you so much.

Wow I have already made two of these. The only thing I did was add a ruffled pocket (inspired by Mommy by Day Crafter by Night: http://mommybydaycrafterbynight.blogspot.com/2011/08/ruffled-tote-tutorial.html). Your instructions were perfect to follow with all the pictures needed to understand what to do. You just saved me an entire sewing class! Thank you!

I just finished this bag yesterday. Thanks for the easy to understand instructions. My bag is so cute, my boyfriend didn't know that I made it myself when I showed him. I just started sewing and this is my second bag, but aside from the fact that my lining was a teensy big larger than the outside bag, it came out really well! Thank you thank you thank you! I can't wait to make this again (and cut better the next time)!

Hello, Just wanted to say thank you so much for this tutorial! I found this post over a year ago and didn't think I was good enough to give it a shot an make it look good, but tonight I finally gave it a shot. I made a trick or treat bag for my daughter. It has a few mishaps but still looks nice. Tomorrow night I'm going to make another one for my son! I have so many plans for more bags with different prints! <3<3<3 Thank You!

Have just made 3 bags for Christmas presents, thankyou so much they look really great. The material I got in a charity shop for £1.50 and the lining I paid 50p. I loved making them as I've just got a new sewing machine and need the practise.

Thank you for sharing this tutorial.! It is very well written and easy to follow. I am using it to make customized trick-or-treat bags for my son's friends. I will link to your tutorial when I blog my project.

Hi, I'm new to sewing and I'm still a little unsure of how to do things but I love this bag and I'm trying to make it. I've reached step 4 but I'm a bit stuck on step 5. How do I place the 2 fabrics one inside the other (should both be inside out?) and how do I sew the seam (the one with the handles attached) so that the seam goes inside like yours does? Please can someone help me out.Thanks.My email id is Mehtasanaya@hotmail.com if anyone can give me an idea.

I made this bag and my friend did too! I wrote a post about it and linked back to your site. Your site really is amazing. I looked through tons and tons of tote bag tutorials and yours was the easiest to understand. Thanks so much for making this fun! Here's the link to my post http://www.budgetblonde.com/2011/09/simple-sew-easy-reversible-tote-bag.html

BRILLIANT! Thank you so much for sharing the best tutorial EVER! You explained this so well, it's now easy for me to understand the inside/outside/lining process :D I've never seen instructions and pictures so clearly written and it inspires confidence that I can do it. I'm looking through fabric stash as soon as I hit submit.

This is the first thing I have ever sewn! I went pretty well, except I confused and my lining is showing the wrong side, but I really don't mind. You can't really... I will know what not to do next time! Thanks for the help.... I have many more projects in my future. :) :) :)

I am curious which blogging and site-building platform you might be running? I'm new to running a blog and have been thinking about using the Tripod platform. Do you consider this is a good foundation to start with? I would be really grateful if I could ask you some questions through email so I can learn a bit more prior to getting started. When you have some free time, please be sure to contact me at: Camire@yahoo.com. Thank you

Thank you so much for an easy to follow tutorial. I am just learning to sew and this was so easy!! I made a tote for my daughter's teacher and it came out beautiful. I can't wait to make another one :)

Just wondering if this would still work if the pieces of fabric were cut on the fold (bottom of bag)? I'm a lazy, novice sewer and that seems like it would work, but I'm over 40 and on a diet so my mind isn't as sharp as it could be. :)

Just whipped up one of these this afternoon. Used oilcloth, and it's such a cute summer tote! Tip for others using oilcloth...make sure the opening you leave when sewing the liner to the outside is big enough. I had a little trouble turning it. Thanks! Thinking about making a lot of these over the summer for teacher Christmas gifts! ;)

This tote was easy to make and has turned out to be very durable. My daughter has been using hers in full rotation for a year and it has been LOADED with crayons and books and hauled everywhere. Thank you so much. I am sewing another today for my son.

I loved these directions because they were so easy to follow. I do not sew often, but I followed the directions and the bag turned out great. I used some polka dot fabric on one side and striped on the other - Way cute!

Thank you so much for publishing this terrific and easy tutorial! I have linked to your site on mine tonight, telling everyone what a great tutorial you have here and what a great site you have. Thank you - I can't believe I made this!! :-)

Awesome and most importantly, EASY tutorial for us beginner seamstresses! I made this bag for my sister and posted the pic on facebook and have had people asking me to sell them one! Also, when I am making other bags, I refer to this for instructions on how to make them reversible/lined. Thanks again! LOVE IT!

Thank you!!!! I bought three different patterns and none of them were as simple as I wanted. I just finished making a couple of reversible totes. At first my brain didnt get it but then it did and NOW I am whipping out 8 more for Christmas presents. THANK YOU MERRY CHRISTMAS

Thanks so much for this tutorial! Like other people have commented, I also have very little sewing experience, and I tend to be afraid of new sewing projects...But I found your directions today and decided to go for it, and I did it! I made a darling little lavender flowered "purse" for my niece for Christmas! :) It's not perfect, but I doubt she'll notice any flaws. The best part is that I already had the supplies on hand, so her gift was essentially free. Thanks again! :)

I love this bag and this tutorial! I have very little sewing experience and I was able to follow your tutorial and end result was a very cute well made bag! Thank you for such clear and easy to understand directions!

I'm making these as Christmas gifts for all the girls in my family, tailored to their favorite colors using some fun fabrics. Your instructions are super easy to follow and even modify to make a larger tote. Thanks!

Thank you so much for this. I haven't sewn in ages...probably since jr high home ec 20 years ago!...but i just managed to sew a super-cute tote bag for my daughter to carry her choir gear in. I was even brave enough to add a pencil holder on the lining (just added a piece of the outside material and sewed a couple of long vertical lines about 1" wide). I think it is AWESOME and I am so proud of myself! Thank you for helping even the domestically challenged of us create homemade things we can be proud of!

I just had to let you know I love this. As soon as I get 2 fabrics I like I am making this.Also wanted to let you know I posted a link to my website. I hope you don't mind? http://christinas-created-creations.blogspot.com/2010/09/i-came-across-this-today-and-i-just.html

Thank you for this wonderful tutorial! I made a tote in a couple of hours and can't wait to make a matching zippered pouch with your other tutorial. Your instructions are great and easy to follow. Thank you!!

I am looking for strapping and pretty inexpensive material or cloth strapping wholesale for the handles....I think braid would be could. Might you have a wholesale source...thanks so much....i am just getting started. are there wholesale supplies for thread and pins and trim that you know of....thanks again arline

I love your tutorial. I have made so many totes reversible and similar in style, but somehow each time I discover another tutorial I find that the coloring is the most inspiring bit. I love the fabrics! Thank you for sharing. I am going to use your sizing for my next tote, it sounds like a perfect size!

Thanks for the great idea!! I was thinking the other day how I need to make a bag to right size to attatch to our stoller for outings... I'm gonna use this concept, except make two straps, and put snaps on the top of the straps so I can take it on and of the stroller easily!

I found your patttern while searching for an easy tote for a mixed group of ladies (from very skilled to novice stitchers and quilters ), we needed something simple for the newbies. We are making the bags for missionaries to shop with in a little mini-mart at missions conference in May. This year the gifts have to be smaller than last year when we gave sheets sets and towel sets along with some everyday school type supplies for the children. The economy has slowed everyone down, so this year we are giving cds, dvds,craayons, toothpaste, lotionn, books-- you get the idea.. there will be about 120 bags given out, the adults will receive the bags, both spouses will get one (if married) and the adults will shop for the children. So far in 3 weeks meeting on Tesday mornings we have approx 70 bags made. Thank you for sharing!1God bless you!!!!!

I came across your tutorial while looking for a cute tote I could use as a diaper bag. Your directions were very simple and pictures were very helpful. I just finished my bag in under an hour and am thrilled with the result. Thank you!

Great Bag, I looked for a tote but never found one I liked. So I bought material I liked and found your web site. Being in this snowing weather was perfect for craft making. Thank you for such easy directions. I was done in less than 30 minutes.

Hi! I love this tutorial but I'm confused at the whole "pinch the bottom corner" part. I can't figure out how to pinch it like the picture. Is there anyway you can take a shot and email it to me of you pinching it and laying it flat so i can see how/where to pinch and sew? I'm soooo confused.Thanks!

I LOVE the reversible tote pattern!! Very easy to follow. I am making them for new babies with their names on them and filling them with baby necessities for a gift. Thank you for posting this tutorial.

Fantastic tutorial! I haven't sewn since high school and I managed to make one of these bags in about 2.5 hours. I made it as a first birthday gift for our friends daughter and filled it with cardboard books. They all commented on how lovely the bag was and were impressed when I said I had made it!Thank you!!

Thank you so much for the inspiration and the clear directions. I just made this for a friend's birthday in linen, lined with quilting cotton with a little patchwork on the front to make it "gift-worthy."

I have just recently discovered crafting blogs and yours is definately emerging as one of my favorites! My list of to dos keeps growing. Now if someone could just come watch my kiddos so I could have time to sew all of your great projects. :)

From hosting a shrimp boil, celebrating holidays, making homemade scratch art paper, sewing gifts and throwing parties to cooking delicious food, you will find it all here at Skip To My Lou. The site is full of free patterns, downloads and I hope plenty of inspiration. Please hang out with me awhile and check it out!